The Pirates moved one game ahead of Cincinnati, which lost to the Mets 4-2. Pittsburgh remained two games behind NL Central-leading St. Louis.

One night after clinching their first postseason spot in 21 years, Cole and the Pirates showed few signs of a letdown. Cole hit a two-run single, Pedro Alvarez drove in three runs and Jordy Mercer homered.

Cole (10-7) won his fourth straight start, giving up two runs and seven hits. He struck out six and walked one.

Cole's single came during a three-run second inning against Chris Rusin (2-6).